Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Jewell retires

As the Chief Medical Officer for Wales Dr Tony Jewell retires, First Minister Carwyn Jones and Health Minister Lesley Griffiths pay tribute to his work in improving the health of people in Wales.

Tuesday 31 July 2012

Dr Jewell has spent six years in the role, providing independent professional advice and guidance to the First Minister and the Welsh Government on health and healthcare matters.

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones said:

“I want to thank Dr Jewell for his dedication to improving the health of the people of Wales. He developed Our Healthy Future, an ambitious strategic vision for public health. He has worked tirelessly to reduce inequalities that can affect good health, such as child poverty.

“Through the Fairer Outcomes for All plan, he has worked to ensure health issues are built into all government policy, which is crucial to achieve real change.

Health Minister Lesley Griffiths added:

“His work tackling smoking has had a significant impact on health. Thanks in no small part to his efforts, Wales was the first UK nation to ban smoking in public places. He has since led the campaign to reduce the exposure of children to smoke in cars or at home, and encouraged efforts to prevent young people to take up smoking.

“Dr Jewell often remarks that public health work is a marathon, not a sprint, and I expect we will continue to feel the benefits of his work in public health in the decades to come. I wish him well in his retirement.”

Dr Jewell said:

“I have very much enjoyed my six years in Wales, and I wish the same for my successor, Dr Ruth Hussey. Dr Hussey was born in Wales and spent her early years here. She has worked at a senior level in public health in England, and brings extensive experience to the role. I wish her well in her work towards a healthier Wales.”